Question

Identify the psychologist who is described by each statement. Choose from: Binet, Terman, Wechsler, Spearman, Thurstone. Gardner, Sternberg. _______ Contemporary American psychologist who proposed that there are three aspects of intelligence: analytic, creative, and practical.

Short answer

Sternberg

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Description

The description provided states that this psychologist is an American, and has proposed a theory about intelligence that includes three aspects: analytic, creative, and practical. This narrows down the search to those psychologists who are American and have a theory related to these aspects of intelligence.

Distinguish between American and non-American psychologists

Begin by identifying the psychologists on the list that are American, as the given description mentions the psychologist is from the United States. From the list provided, the following are American psychologists: Wechsler, Thurstone, Gardner, and Sternberg.

Identify the theorist who proposed the three aspects of intelligence

Now that we have identified the American psychologists from the list, focus on the part of the description about the theory of three aspects of intelligence. Research or recall the theories proposed by Wechsler, Thurstone, Gardner, and Sternberg to find the one that involves the analytic, creative, and practical aspects of intelligence.

Match the description to the psychologist

After researching or reviewing the works of listed American psychologists, it is clear that Robert Sternberg is the contemporary American psychologist who proposed the Triarchic Theory of Intelligence, which includes the analytic, creative, and practical aspects of intelligence. Therefore, the answer is Sternberg.

Key concepts

Robert Sternberg

Robert Sternberg is a renowned psychologist known for his contribution to the field of intelligence research. His work is extensive, but he is particularly famous for the Triarchic Theory of Intelligence, which fundamentally changed how we understand intelligence. Sternberg was born on December 8, 1949, in New Jersey, United States. He completed his education at prestigious institutions such as Yale University and later taught at various universities including Oklahoma State University and Cornell University. His insights into the nature of intelligence have helped educators and psychologists develop better educational programs and assessments.
Under the Triarchic Theory, Sternberg argued that traditional IQ testing is insufficient because it doesn't capture the full range of human intelligence. This theory challenges earlier models that focus solely on analytical performance, suggesting that intelligence is more diverse and multi-faceted.

• Analytical Intelligence: problem-solving and logical reasoning.
• Creative Intelligence: novelty and imagination.
• Practical Intelligence: everyday skills and common sense.

intelligence theories

Intelligence theories aim to define, measure, and understand intelligence in its various forms. These theories have evolved significantly over time to better capture the complex and multi-dimensional aspects of human cognitive capabilities. Early theories often focused on a general intelligence factor, known as 'g', proposed by Charles Spearman.
Over time, theorists have developed more nuanced understandings. Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, for example, suggests that people have different kinds of intelligences, such as musical, spatial, and linguistic.
Sternberg's Triarchic Theory added another layer by emphasizing that intelligence encompasses more than just academic or analytical abilities. His model suggests that intelligence should also account for creativity and practical understanding. This approach allows for a broader appreciation of human capabilities and how they apply in real-world settings.

analytic intelligence

Analytic intelligence is one of the three components in Sternberg's Triarchic Theory of Intelligence. It involves the cognitive functions often associated with problem solving and logical reasoning. People strong in analytic intelligence are typically good at tasks that require evaluating, analyzing, comparing, and contrasting.
They excel in academic settings where structured problems are common, such as in tests that measure mathematical reasoning or verbal comprehension. For example:

• Solving complex mathematical equations.
• Critically analyzing a piece of literature.
• Constructing logical arguments or hypotheses.

This form of intelligence is usually emphasized in traditional educational systems, where standardized tests are commonly used to measure a student's cognitive abilities. However, Sternberg argues that focusing exclusively on analytic intelligence can overlook other crucial aspects of human intellect.

creative intelligence

Creative intelligence is about imagination, innovation, and the ability to think outside the box. It enables individuals to creatively solve novel problems and adapt to new situations. This dimension of intelligence involves going beyond the given information to generate new ideas. It's what artists, writers, and innovators use to create their work.
People with high creative intelligence often excel in conditions that require thinking unconventionally or producing original work. Some examples include:

• Composing music or writing fiction.
• Developing innovative solutions for social issues.
• Designing new inventions or technologies.

Sternberg's inclusion of creative intelligence recognizes that traditional measures of intelligence are insufficient. By acknowledging creativity, the theory validates diverse talents, which contributes greatly to fields like arts, science, and entrepreneurship.

practical intelligence

Practical intelligence focuses on the ability to adapt to everyday life. It involves "street smarts" or practical know-how, which is essential for navigating day-to-day challenges efficiently and effectively.
Those with high practical intelligence can manage themselves and others well, applying knowledge in real-world scenarios. Unlike analytic intelligence, practical intelligence is not easily quantified via conventional testing but is crucial for success in many aspects of life. Examples of practical intelligence include:

• Managing finances and budgets effectively.
• Negotiating social situations and relationships skillfully.
• Solving practical problems at work or home spontaneously.

This aspect of Sternberg's Triarchic Theory underscores the importance of temperate forms of intelligence often omitted in traditional assessments. By incorporating practical intelligence, the theory broadens our understanding of what it means to be truly intelligent in real-world contexts.